Aims

The module provides an introduction to Healthcare Ethics, with a particular focus on the issues raised in the treatment and care of patients with cancer and those receiving palliative care. The module aims to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the ethical issues raised in oncology and palliative care.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to health care ethics
– Law, ethics and professional standards 
– Candour 
– Confidentiality 
– Consent 
– Ethical issues in research 
– End-of-life issues including advance directives
- Euthanasia and withholding and withdrawing treatment 
– Complementary medicine 
– Resource allocation

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The design of the on-line materials encourages students to explore and deepen their understanding of the ethical issues which arise from the provision of cancer/palliative care. The on-line asynchronous discussions focus on issues raised through the completion of weekly activities, reading and reflection. The outcomes of these discussions will not only facilitate networking but also allow students to relate the information to their own experiences and issues in contemporary clinical practice.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The summative essay encourages critical application of the relevant ethical frame works and professional guidance to a relevant example or scenario from clinical practice.

A participation grade is included to reflect the student's engagement with the collaborative activities included throughout this e-learning module.